Actions and Spectrum:
The mechanism of action of aripiprazole is complex and not fully understood. It acts as a partial agonist at serotonin 5-HT1A receptors and dopamine D2 and an antagonist at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. This unique pharmacological profile is thought to contribute to aripiprazole’s efficacy in treating both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia and mood stabilization in bipolar disorder.
In addition to its direct effects on dopamine and serotonin receptors, aripiprazole also affects other neurotransmitter systems, including noradrenaline and histamine receptors.
The spectrum of activity of aripiprazole includes the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (both mania and depression), and major depressive disorder. It has also been used off-label to treat anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and autism spectrum disorder.
